New Book | Review

 

Review

Looking at a different dimension of Gandhi

Book Title: MAHATMA GANDHI: Sambadika O Sampadaka

Edited By: Dr. Mrinal Chatterjee & Snehasis Sur

Language: Odia

Publisher: Sephali Communications, Sanchar Marg, Dhenkanal

Pages 312, Price: 350/-

First Published January 2021

Review By: Aniruddha Jena

Edited by Dr. Mrinal Chatterjee and Snehasis Sur, the book under review gives a different understanding and a lens to see Mahatma Gandhi as a journalist and editor. Mahatma Gandhi, the person, has been a subject to a number of books. We study him as a philosopher, political thinker, leader, social reformer and so on. But this particular book offers a different kind of outlook about the Mahatma.

There are twenty eight essays and articles contributed by eminent writers, academics, scholars and journalists. 

Mahatma Gandhi realised the need to become a journalist in 1903. By that time, he had foreseen the immense potential of journalism in breaking the shackles of the authoritarian and dominant force. He mobilised and influenced commoners through his impeccable English writings and flawless ideas. He embraced the true values of journalism and communicated the raw facts without messing up with the sanctity and essence of it.

The essays and articles featured here, present a range of ideas and values that were practiced by Mahatma Gandhi as a journalist and editor. His philosophy of journalism was only and only about rendering services for the holistic development of the society. He truly used journalism as a catalytic tool to bring the spirit of positivity to society.

This book, indeed is an essential and enriching reading for all those who loves reading Mahatma Gandhi and his ideas. In nutshell, the book aims at offering the journalistic acumen and this part of his life and contribution.

***

Anirudha Jena is Doctoral Student at  University of Hyderabad.